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Elderly people targeted in distraction burglaries POLICE are warning residents of a number of distraction burglaries, which took place over two days in South and East Cambridgeshire. In one incident three men tried to distract an elderly woman at her home. The men, claiming to be from the ‘gas board’, called at her home, at 7.50 pm. They asked to turn the gas off, as there was a problem in the area, one of the men went through to the kitchen while the other two stood outside. Nothing was stolen. The men left when neighbours chased the men off. The second incident was in Whittlesford, at 10 am. A man knocked at the home of an elderly couple asking for a pen and paper. While they searched for a piece of paper the man left, the couple later noticed two handbags were missing and money had been stolen. The third incident happened shortly after 10 am in Linton. An elderly man opened the door to a man claiming there had been an explosion and water needed to be flushed in his pipes. The victim let him into his house, but was suspicious, so when he threatened to call the police the man left and nothing was stolen. Detective Inspector Ian Simmons, who is investigating these incidents, said: All of these offences are targeting vulnerable people and are despicable crimes. I would urge the community to look out for their elderly neighbours, be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour. If you see anything suspicious contact DI Simmons on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Sarah Redman
Previous Priorities At the neighbourhood panel meeting in 17th January 2012 the following issues were adopted as priorities. The tables below summarise action taken and the current situation regarding the priorities which were set: Objective: In partnership, investigate any links between sale and consumption of high energy drinks and anti-social behaviour in Melbourn. Action Taken: Consultations with partners in South Cambs District Council, Primary Care Trust and Trading Standards have taken place. Findings are that there is no enforcement action possible to
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prevent the selling of high energy drinks to young people as the drink have no alcohol content. The Licensing Act 2003 legislation only applies to drinks containing alcohol. Any decision by a retailer to refrain from selling such drinks to children would be purely voluntary. Current Situation: Any code relating to sale of these drinks is purely voluntary.
Emerging issues Melbourn (Melbourn, Gt Chishill, Lt Chishill and Heydon).
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No dwelling burglaries occurred, non-dwelling burglaries increased by 1 to 4 offences Violent crime more than doubled to 8 offences Criminal damage offences increased to 5 ASB incidents increased by 5 to 31
Shed burglaries There has been a spate of shed burglaries in the Foxton area, 2 on the High Street and 1 in Shepreth Road, In all 3 of the burglaries Bicycles were stolen as well as a lawnmower and a strimmer. Here are a few tips to try and secure your shed better 1 A lighting system that covers the area of the shed can deter criminals. 2 Most thieves gain entry by forcing off the lock. Use a heavyduty hasp and staple (also known as a pad bar) and secure it with suitable coach bolts and locking nuts. 3 Prevent the thieves from window shopping by boarding the windows over on the inside or fit net curtains. 4 Fit a shed alarm to the door of your shed to warn of any attempted break in.
Safer neighbourhoods There are many things you and your community can do to make your neighbourhood safer. Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch groups have repeatedly shown the way. Every community is different and each has its own specific requirements when it comes to safety. Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch groups succeed by taking a clear-eyed look at the needs in their areas and responding with intelligent, targeted and often innovative solutions.
